The 2024 revised nursing registration process in New Zealand provides a fantastic opportunity for Indian nurses to carve out a successful career in a country known for its high demand in the healthcare sector. Nursing roles are listed as Tier 1 on the Green List in New Zealand, highlighting the critical need for Internationally Qualified Nurses and the substantial benefits offered to them. Once registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, Indian nurses can begin their careers, apply for a Work Visa, or opt for a Straight to Residence Visa, allowing them to live and work indefinitely in New Zealand.
For Indian Nurses in 2024, the nursing registration process in New Zealand has been streamlined and expedited. It now takes approximately 6 to 9 months for internationally trained nurses to secure registration along with a straight to residence (permanent residence) visa.
New Zealand Registration Process for Nurses in 2024
In New Zealand, the process of nursing registration involves five critical steps. This multi-stage process encompasses document verification, background checks, knowledge assessments, and clinical skills testing.
CGFNS Document Verification
Before applying for registration, ensure your qualifications and credentials are verified through the (Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools) CGFNS. The essential documents required for this verification include:
- Credentials that meet NCNZ’s standards
- Proof of Current Nursing Registration
- Evidence of English Language Proficiency through IELTS or OET
- Identity documents
- Work Experience documents
Credential Verification by CGFNS involves: - Paying a $300 USD fee for the application.
- Uploading all necessary documents for verification.
- Authorizing the report to be sent to the Nursing Council within 30 days of its completion.
The next step is applying to the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ)
Following the approval from CGFNS, you need to apply to the NCNZ within 30 days upon receiving an email invitation. An application and processing fee of NZ$485 is required. The NCNZ will evaluate your application based on the seven registration standards. - The next step is to complete two free online coursesto understand culturally safe nursing practices within New Zealand. These courses should be completed promptly to prevent any delays in registration. The courses, accessible from anywhere, include:
- NgāPaerewaTeTiriti Module 1
- Foundations in Cultural Competence
After completing these two online courses, their certificates must be uploaded to the IQN portal on NCNZ website. Applicants must also undergo an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) facilitated by Fit2work, ensuring all candidates meet the ethical standards required for practice.
Competence to Practice
The subsequent step involves a competence assessment through two tests, IQN theory examination and OSCE.
Theoretical Exam - In this step, candidates are required to take an online theoretical exam, hosted globally at Pearson VUE-accredited centers. The exam consists of two parts:
- Part A, focusing on Medication Safety
- Part B, assessing Nursing Knowledge
Candidates must pass both parts to move forward, though they have the opportunity to retake any part they fail by paying an additional fee.
OSCE Exam
The final step is the Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE). Prior to the examination, candidates attend a two-day event that includes both OSCE orientation and preparation in Christchurch, New Zealand. This exam must also be taken in-person in New Zealand, and candidates need a New Zealand Visitor Visa to attend. Should a candidate fail the OSCE, they may retake it. - Cost of Nursing Registration in New Zealand for Indian Nurses in 2024
- The nursing registration process requires various fees at different stages:
- CGFNS verification: USD 300 (approx. 25,190 INR)
- Nursing Council application and processing: NZ$485 (approx. 24,984 INR)
- International Criminal History Check: NZ$169 (approx. 8,706 INR)
- Theoretical Exam: NZ$140 (approx. 7,212 INR)
- Re-sit fees for Medication Safety: NZ$32 (approx. 1,648 INR)
- Re-sit fees for Nursing Knowledge: NZ$108 (approx. 5,563 INR)
- OSCE Orientation and Preparation: NZ$500 (approx. 25,756 INR)
- OSCE Clinical Examination: NZ$3,000 (approx. 154,537 INR)
- OSCE Clinical Examination Re-sit: NZ$3,000 (approx. 154,537 INR)
How long does it take to register as a nurse in New Zealand?
Typically, the registration process takes between 5 to 7 months. Prompt submission of all required documents and passing exams on the first attempt can expedite this process.
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